The Apostles' Creed - Pt. 27

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. (Psalm 103:1-5 ESV).

 

We don’t always like to bring up the topic of sin. But in our life of faith it’s necessary to face up to our desperate predicament. Sadly, none of us acts the way we should toward God, others, ourselves, and God’s creation. We persistently choose to disregard our maker, contend with others, deceive and harm ourselves, and mistreat creation. Our sin not only leads to trouble and misery but also shows that we rightfully deserve punishment. So with great relief and joy we confess, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in …the forgiveness of sins.” The heart of the creed’s teaching emphasizes our need for the Savior, Jesus Christ. Through his atoning sacrifice, Jesus washed away our sin. Even though we still continue to struggle with sin, Jesus assures us that God will not judge us as we deserve because we have been forgiven.

 

The forgiveness of sins stands at the core of following Jesus. Because we have been forgiven, we can, through the power and help of the Holy Spirit, strive each day to faithfully serve Jesus. As he gave himself for us, out of thanksgiving we can live for him.

 

While this seems superfluous, it is an essential of our faith. Understanding the incredible gift of God sets us free from the burden of religion. This was the whole of the preaching and teaching of Jesus when confronted by the religious leaders of His day. There were literally thousands of rules and laws of their religion. No one could possibly do enough to satisfy the demands of these rituals and laws. Neither can we do so today. The good news is Jesus paid the price I could never pay and died the death I deserved. That declaration then gives me access and standing as a child of God, adopted into His family with all the rights and privileges that accompany that standing.

 

Once again we see the incredibly practical effect of the declaration of our creed. They are not mere words. They are the truths that surround us with a deeper understanding of the mercy and grace of God, our Father! Bless the Lord, O my soul!